"The city in its setting and entire surroundings may be said to have something ideal." (Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, 1797). Scarcely any other European city has had its praises so often sung as Heidelberg. The mysterious Heidelberg Castle, the picturesque Old Town, and as Goethe himself stated, the perfection of its setting – in the nineteenth century, all of this attracted the German romanticists, who immortalized Heidelberg in poetry, music, and art. Today the charm of Old Heidelberg is combined with a future-oriented and international focus.

With fewer than half a million people, the"little big city" of Bratislava ranks among Europe's most relaxed capitals since everything is in close vicinity or a short walk away. Vienna (80km) and Budapest (200km) — also reachable by boat through the river Danube. Slovakia's capital boasts an old-town charm, sophisticated restaurants, traditional pubs, good music ranging from jazz to opera, and an urban design that allows you to enjoy your visit without exhausting yourself. All this with Central Europe's greatest river as a backdrop.

With its characteristic canals (UNESCO World Heritage) surrounded by narrow, low, and crooked 17th-century houses, Amsterdam is, undoubtedly, one of the most charming capital cities in Europe. The rich cultural life and a wide range of entertainment make Amsterdam a full-scale city which has managed to retain its small-town feel. With over 50 museums, of which many are famous across the globe, this city is a real treat for art-lovers: highlights include the Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, and the Stedelijk Museum.

Talofa lava—welcome to Samoa! Think of picture-perfect, long sandy white beaches framed by a lapping marine-blue ocean, lush rainforests with cascading waterfalls, vibrant flora and fauna, and under the ocean, the most amazing colourful gardens you could imagine: this is Samoa, the last unspoilt paradise in the world.

Lake Tahoe is a masterpiece straddling the border between California and Nevada. The basin of glistening waters and palatial mountains was formed out of calamitous volcanic activity roughly a million years ago. Divided into North and South, both parts of equal beauty, Tahoe keeps locals and visitors occupied all year round with ski resorts, warm-weather activities, casinos, reputable nightlife venues, and fantastic food.